International Cancer Survivors Day South Africa 2024
One out of every four people will be affected by cancer in their lifetime in South Africa. In fact, in 2020 roughly 110 000 people were diagnosed with cancer in South Africa.
As the estimates around this number increase, so should our awareness and action as well. On the first Sunday of June, we celebrate International Cancer Survivors Day to appreciate hope and life with the cancer survivors nearest to us. In 2024, International Cancer Survivor’s Day falls on 2 June 2024.
When is Cancer Survivors Day in South Africa?
This year, Cancer Survivors Day is celebrated on 2 June 2024 and is set aside to celebrate the health and life of those who have overcome this disease. Not only is it a celebration for them, but it is also an inspiration for those who have been diagnosed, a way for families to gather and support them, and an outreach for communities as a whole.
How to celebrate Cancer Survivors day
There are a number of ways you can celebrate the bravery and resilience of those who have gone through Cancer. Some of them include:
- Providing emotional support to those who are affected by cancer.
- Attending cancer awareness events.
- Donating to and supporting cancer organisations.
- Honouring the survivors in your life by reaching out to friends and family or spending quality time with a survivor.
Why It’s Important To Celebrate Cancer Survivors
There are a number of reasons why it is essential to celebrate the life of cancer survivors. Cancer is both a physically and emotionally challenging battle to face, celebrating survivors acknowledges their strength and determination.
Through the celebration of this day, we can also raise much-needed awareness to inspire hope, drive research, and generate donations for patients who may struggle to afford the treatment they need.
Celebrating and being there for survivors is another way to offer support for those affected. A cancer diagnosis can feel incredibly isolating and daunting. By fostering a sense of community, we can show those affected that they are not alone.
Fighting cancer and winning gives survivors an appreciation for the beauty of life. Celebrating their victory alongside them is a great reminder to appreciate our health and the importance of living life to its absolute fullest.
How to ensure we have more survivors to celebrate
There are two primary approaches to ensuring we have more survivors to celebrate: Namely improving cancer treatment and advancing prevention efforts. Here are a few ways we can work towards these goals:
- Funding and research development for treatments is crucial for overcoming cancer. From gene therapy to radiotherapy, advancing our understanding in these areas is key.
- early detection drastically improves the success rate of treatment. Regular screening and raising awareness are always a step in the right direction.
- Treatment accessibility is an under-appreciated approach to improving survivor rates. By advocating for and promoting affordable healthcare, we can ensure everyone has fair and equal access to cancer treatment.
- Promoting a healthy lifestyle through habits such as a balanced diet and frequent exercise you can help others reduce their risk of developing certain cancers.
Upcoming Cancer Fundraising Events in South Africa
There are a number of Cancer Fundraising events coming up in South Africa:
- Donate directly to CANSA
- Host or join a CANSA support event
- Take a look at events taking place throughout the year
Cancer Survivors Day is a powerful reminder to celebrate the life and love of those who have overcome this disease. Through the recognition of their fight, not only do we foster support and inspiration for those affected by it, but we also raise essential awareness for future research and understanding of this disease. This Sunday 2 June 2024 let’s honour their strength and work towards a future with less suffering for everyone.